Coach of the Month – ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:07:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.3 /wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/05/cropped-ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ-Logo_Primary-TM_Horizontal_4c-scaled-1-32x32.png Coach of the Month – ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ 32 32 ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: March 2026 /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-march-2026/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-march-2026 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:03:43 +0000 /?p=8810 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the winners of the Coach of the Month Award for March: Jordan Mackenzie, & Cole Shafer. 

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of March.

Female Division: Jordan Mackenzie, Delta Hockey Academy Black

“Jordan is very dedicated to developing his U18 Black team. Jordan does weekly video sessions and spends time with each player going over ways to improve their game. Jordan also spends time daily in the gym at our home rink pushing the players and making sure they are lifting correctly and managing injuries properly. Jordan makes himself available 24/7 and is all in when it comes to coaching. Our Black team this year beat Rink Winnipeg, Edge, SAHA, Shawnigan and others and Jordan’s team was always well prepared and motivated to play. A job well done by Jordan.”

Male Division: Cole Shafer, South Alberta Hockey Academy

“Cole Shafer has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and professionalism in his role as a goalie coach. His attention to detail and commitment to player development are evident in the structure and purpose behind every session he runs. Cole consistently creates an environment that challenges his athletes while building their confidence, ensuring that each goaltender feels supported and prepared to succeed.

Off the ice, Cole is equally impactful, serving as a mentor and role model to his athletes. He invests time in building relationships, helping goalies navigate both the mental and physical demands of their position. His ability to address challenges within the group, while maintaining a positive and accountable team culture, speaks to his leadership and character. Cole’s passion for coaching and genuine care for his athletes make him a valuable part of the program and a deserving candidate for this recognition.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Staff Member of the Month: February /csshl-staff-member-of-the-month-february/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-staff-member-of-the-month-february Wed, 04 Mar 2026 22:51:14 +0000 /?p=8625 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the winners of the Staff of the Month Award for February: Jason Zhang, Chelsea Dinnin & Jessie Leung. 

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these staff members, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of February.

East Division: Jason Zhang, CIH Academy

“Jason is an integral part of our staff and keeps our student-athletes healthy and on the ice. Jason is on campus every day to assess injuries and provide treatment as needed to not only our U17 and U18 Prep teams, but to all our teams in our program, overseeing approximately 95 student-athletes. Jason is also at every ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ home and road game as well as our out of town tournaments.”

Female Division: Chelsea Dinnin, Balmoral Hall School

“Chelsea has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to our athletes. Her positive energy, strong work ethic, and ability to connect with players have made a meaningful impact on both individual development and overall team performance. She goes above and beyond in her role as assistant coach, always stepping up to support the team and contribute to our program’s success.

I strongly believe she is deserving of this recognition and appreciate your consideration of her nomination. She is also a big advocate for the Female game with her @DreamHockey account on Instagram.”

Male Division: Jessie Leung, Okanagan Hockey Academy

“It is with great enthusiasm that we nominate Jessie Leung for the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Western U15 Coach of the Month award. In his first year as Head Coach of the U15 team, Jessie continues to bring the skills and experience he developed during his time as Head Coach of our U17 Prep team. From day one, he has made an immediate and meaningful impact on his players both on and off the ice.

One of Jessie’s greatest strengths is his genuine commitment to building meaningful relationships with his players. He invests the time to understand each athlete individually, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie within the group that translates directly into a cohesive, connected team environment.

Jessie’s approach to coaching is defined by his attention to detail and organizational excellence. He comes prepared, runs purposeful practices, and holds his players to clear team standards and habits. His ability to establish a culture of accountability and consistency has elevated the day-to-day performance and professionalism of his entire program.

Communication is another area where Jessie truly stands out. Whether he is delivering instruction on the ice, providing feedback to players, or engaging with parents and staff, Jessie is clear, thoughtful, and respectful in everything he does. His players always know where they stand and what is expected of them.

Perhaps most telling of his character is the way Jessie shows up for those around him. He is a true team player — always willing to step in and support fellow coaches and staff whenever and wherever he is needed, without hesitation.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: January 2026 /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-january-2026/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-january-2026 Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:28:37 +0000 /?p=8541 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the winners of the Coach of the Month Award for January: Kirk Mullin, Mark Taylor, & Bryson Traptow. 

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of January.

East Division: Kirk Mullin, Kuper Academy

“Kuper Academy currently ranks number 1 in the U17 East Division. Under Kirk’s leadership, the team has shown consistent high-level performance, strong structure, and compete level throughout the season. His ability to develop players while maintaining a winning culture has been a key factor in the team’s success. The group continues to set the standard in the division both on and off the ice.”

Female Division: Mark Taylor, Delta Hockey Academy

“Mark’s team went undefeated during the month, posting a 4–0 record, including two wins against csshl top-ranked team. Across those games, Delta Green outscored their opponents 15–3, a reflection of both strong preparation and clear identity. These results propelled the team into first place in the MyHockey Rankings for January. Beyond the results, the group has continued to come together, consistently executing at a high level and showing the ability to rise to the occasion against top competition. Mark’s leadership, structure, and ability to get buy-in from his players have been evident throughout the month.”

Male Division: Bryson Traptow, Edge School

“Bryson went 4-1 in league play during the month of January, and has the team at the highest point in the standings they have been this season. Bryson goes above and beyond as a coach, by providing not only great coaching to his players, but also great communication and mentorship. Bryson also has his team engaged in volunteerism, recently having spent the afternoon preparing food for underprivileged children with the Brown bagging for Calgary’s kids organization.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: November 2025 /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-november-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-november-2025 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:49:30 +0000 /?p=8105 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the winners of the Coach of the Month Award for November: Paris Eliopoulos & Josh Arnold. 

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of November.

Female Division: Paris Eliopoulos, Delta Hockey Academy

“Paris has taken on a much bigger role with our Delta Female Prep Black team this season. She’s in charge of our defense and penalty kill, and she’s been a huge part of our early success and our 4–1 record through November.

She completely rebuilt our PK and turned it into the number-one unit in the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Female Prep Division. She’s also done an awesome job working with and developing our D-core—her communication, video work, and day-to-day coaching have made a massive difference.

On top of the on-ice stuff, Paris basically keeps our team running. She handles itineraries, communication with families, and a lot of the behind-the-scenes work that people don’t always see.

All of this while being a full-time member of the Delta Academy admin team. She really does it all, and our team is better because of it.”

Male Division: Josh Arnold, Okanagan Hockey Academy

“Now in his second year as an assistant coach with OHA—and as a proud former OHA student-athlete—Josh brings a unique blend of experience, passion, and commitment to the program every single day.

Josh’s work ethic is second to none. He consistently goes above and beyond his formal responsibilities, always the first to put his hand up when support is needed anywhere across the organization. Whether it’s stepping in on the ice, helping with team needs, or lending a hand to fellow staff, Josh is the definition of a dependable teammate.

His ability to play an effective support role is one of his greatest strengths. Josh understands how to elevate both players and coaches by doing the small, important things that make an entire team better. The athletes respond incredibly well to him—his positive energy, approachability, and genuine care have made him a favourite among the players.

Josh exemplifies the culture and values of OHA. He leads with humility, teamwork, and enthusiasm, making a meaningful impact every day.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: Sept/Oct 2025 /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-sept-oct-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-sept-oct-2025 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 18:24:59 +0000 /?p=7970 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for September/October:

During the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ introduced the Coach of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of September/October.

East Division: Denis Chalifoux, Ulysse Academie

“He went 6-0-0 in the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ, plus 2-0-0 outside of the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (VS Northwood). Denis has been outstanding in terms of player individual development + team development. He is also very good off the ice with team activities and making sure all kids are feeling good. He is also our Hockey Director and supervises our 3 other teams whether it’s talking with the coaching staff or helping younger kids on and off the ice.”

West Female Division: Milton Chan, North Shore Warriors

“Milton has coached and led our female program since its’ inception in 2023. Milton has a 100% success rate of placing Grade 12 players into post secondary College/University hockey and education opportunities. Promoted to become our Director of Business Operations in the Summer of 2025, leading all business operations for the Academy. Participated as a guest coach in the first ever PWHL summer camp held this summer in North Vancouver. First 9 games of the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ season, has compiled a 6-3-0 record. Spearheads community initiatives and volunteer coaching opportunities for our female players. Actively involved in grassroots female hockey and development in the Metro Vancouver region”

West Male Division: Josh Bonar, RHA Kelowna

“After winning the U18 Championship, his team is off to an 8-0-0 start despite featuring only two returning players. Josh has done an incredible job building his team and getting them to play RINK Kelowna hockey. He has an incredible skill of creating an environment where everyone matters and the players feel wanted. They work incredibly hard and play as a team. It’s been very rewarding to watch.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: March /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-march/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-march Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:10:22 +0000 /?p=7272 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for March: Bourget College (Martin Gascon, FX Girard, & JP Brais), Jordan Mackenzie, and Dennis McKinnon.

For the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is proud to introduce the Coach of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of March.

East Division: Martin Gascon, FX Girard, & JP Brais – Bourget College

“The Bourget College coaching staff led their team to five wins in five days to win the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ East U18 Championship. They navigated the team through different points of the year, allowing crucial teaching moments to apply to a rigours ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Championships. The team of coaches are extremly dedicated to the development of student-athletes.”

West Female Division: Jordan Mackenzie – Delta Hockey Academy Black

“Delta nominated Jordan after an incredible playoff run that showcased preparation, passion, and leadership. Taking the youngest team in the league from a 13th place finish into the Division II finals was no small feat. From thoughtful details like playoff shirts and green playoff laces to high-intensity practices and countless hours of video prep, every detail was meticulously planned. Coach Jordan instilled belief in a group that had been labeled underdogs and helped them rise to the occasion. The team went 1-0-1 in round robin play, including the final round robin game this team battled through three consecutive overtime games—winning two of them in thrilling fashion to reach the finals. In the final, facing a significantly older and more experienced opponent, the team showed incredible heart, rallying from a 3-0 deficit to bring the game within one. The resilience Jordan and Paris’s team displayed was a direct reflection of the growth, mindset, and grit developed all season under Coach Jordan’s guidance.”

West Male Division: Dennis McKinnon – Okanagan Hockey Academy

“OHA is honoured to nominate Dennis in recognition of his exceptional leadership as the OHA U17 Head Coach. Under his guidance, the team concluded the season with an impressive 25 wins, securing second place in the division, before capping off their remarkable performance by winning the U17 Division I Championship.

However, Dennis’s impact goes far beyond wins and losses. His focus on building both skilled players and strong character has proven to be his true “X-Factor.” By fostering a positive, cohesive, and disciplined team culture, he has created an environment where players thrive not only as athletes but as individuals.

Throughout the season, Dennis has been committed to strengthening team bonds and promoting personal growth. He hosted team breakfasts and arranged various team-building activities, creating an atmosphere of unity and mutual respect. Additionally, he arranged for his players to volunteer with the Salvation Army Kettle Bells initiative over the holiday season. This community involvement gave the team a chance to give back while learning invaluable lessons in teamwork, humility, and the importance of service to others. Dennis’s dedication to these experiences underscores his belief that growth happens both on and off the ice.

Dennis’s meticulous attention to detail—whether in his coaching strategies or his commitment to his players’ overall development—demonstrates his unwavering focus on upholding the program’s core values. He ensures his players are not only prepared for the game but also equipped for success in life.

Dennis’s leadership has also had a profound impact on his coaching staff. His assistant coach has flourished in their role, thanks to the mentorship, guidance, and support Dennis provides. By empowering both players and staff, Dennis creates opportunities for growth at every level of the program.

In all aspects of his leadership, Dennis McKinnon exemplifies discipline, dedication, and the spirit of mentorship, making him a deserving winner for Coach of the Month.”

 

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: February /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-february/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-february Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:06:50 +0000 /?p=7085 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for February: Derek Bachynski, Larry Bumstead, and Tyson Soloski. 

For the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is proud to introduce the Coach of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of February.

East Division – Derek Bachynski, Fort Erie International Academy

“As the U18 FEIA Head Coach, Derek has demonstrated an incredible work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to player development, making a significant impact on our program.

Since I took over as U17 Head Coach in mid-December, Derek has been instrumental in guiding me through the transition. He has gone out of his way to offer support, making the process much smoother. He works tirelessly—preparing for games and practices like a professional, dedicating hours to video analysis, and ensuring that his players are held accountable. He even goes the extra mile by driving the team bus when needed, showing his commitment to the team in every possible way.

His leadership and preparation have paid off, as his team has improved significantly and is now an extremely competitive group. The culture he has built is evident both on and off the ice, and his dedication has been a key factor in their success. It has truly been a pleasure working alongside him, and I believe he is more than deserving of this recognition.”

West Female Division – Larry Bumstead, St. Mary’s Academy

Nominated by Sarah Zacharias, Balmoral Hall School

“Larry has been at the helm of the program since day one in 2011. Larry has helped guide the programs success over the past decade and assisted in over 60 players realizing their dreams of playing collegiate level hockey. Bummer is a father of 3, both of his girls having been through his program and have gone on to do remarkable things of their own in the hockey world. Bummer has been a pillar for the growth and development of female hockey in the province of Manitoba for many years, leading the Girls of the North program through his work with True North.”

West Male Division – Tyson Soloski, Calgary International Hockey Academy

“Coach Tyson has exemplified unparalleled dedication and leadership, meticulously preparing his team for success long before the season begins. Throughout the summer, he commits himself to strategic planning, ensuring every aspect of the team’s development is accounted for. He spends countless hours analyzing game footage, conducting thorough pre-scouts, and refining game plans, leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of a competitive advantage. His attention to detail and deep understanding of the game set the foundation for his team’s success, giving them an edge before they even step on the ice.

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Coach Tyson is deeply invested in his players’ growth, both as athletes and as individuals. He fosters strong relationships by meeting regularly with each player, providing personalized feedback, and offering unwavering support in their on-ice development. His coaching philosophy balances high expectations with genuine care, pushing his players to strive for excellence while ensuring they feel valued and supported. He doesn’t just coach hockey—he mentors, inspires, and cultivates a winning mindset that will benefit his players far beyond the rink.

His leadership extends far beyond the game itself. On road trips, he takes extra measures to create a positive and engaging team culture, organizing innovative team-building activities that strengthen camaraderie and morale. Whether it’s leading a group challenge, sharing motivational insights, or simply ensuring every player feels included, he is always actively involved in fostering a fun and cohesive environment. His ability to bring players together, build unity, and create a culture of accountability and respect is second to none.

Coach Tyson’s passion for the game is contagious. His energy and enthusiasm never waver, and his players feed off his commitment and belief in them. He is the first to celebrate their successes and the first to lift them up after a tough loss, always reinforcing the values of perseverance, resilience, and teamwork. His impact is felt not only in wins and losses but in the confidence, character, and work ethic he instills in his team.

Coach Tyson’s unwavering commitment, tireless work ethic, and relentless pursuit of excellence make him a truly exceptional leader. He embodies what it means to be a great coach—demanding yet compassionate, strategic yet personable, and above all, dedicated to the success and well-being of his players. For his remarkable leadership and the profound influence he has on his team, he is undoubtedly deserving of the Coaches Award.”

 

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Staff of the Month: January /csshl-staff-of-the-month-january/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-staff-of-the-month-january Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:14:14 +0000 /?p=6987 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Staff of the Month Award for January: the FEIA Athletic Therapist Team, Jason Chimera, Jessie Leung. 

For the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is proud to introduce the Staff of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible staff within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three staff members, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of January.

East Division – Kayla VandeKemp, Manuela Alvarez, Matt Brown, and Steven Lam, Fort Erie International Academy

“Behind every successful student-athlete is a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to ensure they can perform at their best, both on and off the field. At FEIA, our athletic therapist staff plays a vital role in keeping our student-athletes safe, healthy, and ready to compete. Our incredible team includes Kayla VandeKemp, Manuela Alvarez, Matt Brown, and Steven Lam.

From early mornings to late nights, and through long road trips, their commitment knows no bounds. They are there every step of the way—providing injury prevention strategies, managing recovery programs, and offering constant support to our athletes. Their expertise and care extend beyond just treating injuries; they focus on educating our athletes about health and wellness to ensure long-term success.

Whether it’s taping an ankle, responding swiftly during a game, or guiding a player through a rehab process, their dedication is unmatched. They are the unsung heroes behind every moment of growth in our program. To our athletic therapist team, thank you for your endless hours, energy, and passion for what you do. Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful for the impact you make in the lives of our student-athletes every day.”

West Female Division – Jason Chimera, OHA Edmonton

“On January 5th, 2024 Hockey Alberta granted OHA Edmonton a female team. On March 10th, Randall Weber announced Jason Chimera as the coach of the inaugural OHA Edmonton Female Prep team. On the weekend of April 12-14, OHA Edmonton hoisted their first ever female ID camp. In these short windows, Jason has built a very strong team for the inaugural year. Since the team selection and through the start of the season the team has been quite competitive with a current record of 14-8-1, which is good for 9th place in the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ. This is quite a feat considering that 10 players are in their first year at the U18 level. Additionally, with only 5 graduating players, Jason has built a solid foundation for the future and continued success of the program. These accomplishments are a result of Jasons high work ethic, high standards and high level of care for his student athletes.”

West Male Division – Jessie Leung, Okanagan Hockey Academy

“Jessie Leung has demonstrated exceptional leadership and coaching prowess, making him an outstanding candidate for the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coach of the Month. Under his guidance, the U17 Prep team has achieved a perfect 4-0 record this month. Jessie’s meticulous attention to detail in game reports, family communications, and game strategies has been instrumental in the team’s success. In December, he further showcased his expertise by contributing to the Team Canada U18 Female Development team, highlighting his versatility and commitment to developing young athletes. Jessie’s dedication to excellence both on and off the ice makes him a deserving nominee for this recognition.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: December /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-december/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-december Tue, 07 Jan 2025 21:34:14 +0000 /?p=6834 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for December: Olivier Magnan, Ryan Carels, Jordan McTaggart

For the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is proud to introduce the Coach of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of December.

East Division – Olivier Magnan, Stanstead College

“Coach Magnan and the U17 Stanstead College Spartans went  3-1 in the month of December. Olivier is a skilled technical coach, crafty motivator and well-respected by his players and hockey community. On a day to day basis, Olivier works well with all teams on campus and is a calm voice for the development of our players. He is also a sound mentor for other coaches in our program.”

West Female Division – Ryan Carels, Pilot Mound Hockey Academy

“Ryan exemplifies leadership, dedication, and commitment both on and off the ice. Ryan has innovative practice plans that have improved his team’s performance and individual player skills. He has a major focus on skill development. He fosters a positive and inclusive team culture, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. Under his guidance, players have developed not only as athletes but also as individuals, demonstrating growth in their personal and academic lives.

Off the ice, Ryan is a pillar in the community. He actively organizes programs, engaging young athletes and promoting the values of hockey. His mentorship extends beyond the rink, as he is always available to provide support and advice to his players, helping them navigate any challenges they face.”

West Male Division – Jordan McTaggart, Wenatchee Wild Hockey Academy

“In December, the Wenatchee U18 Prep team swept a weekend 3 game showcase series (Abbotsford, BC) for the first time in program history. Jordan work’s very close with our defensemen and we had the lowest shots against in those three games. He is a first class coach that gives so many ways to the game. He runs our USA Hockey ADM series and also helps with USA Hockey ‘Learn to Play’. These are sectioned by our local hockey association Wenatchee Amateur Hockey Association and he has been here for the last eight years giving back to the community. His father Jim See Bio helped get Jordan into the game of hockey.

Jordan also helps the Wenatchee Wild in the WHL as a Skills Coach when called on. He is always the first guy to lend a hand to any of the players and parents. He drives the 15 passenger bus for the program, does all of the travel arrangements, orders all of the equipment and many more tasks.

Without a question we would not be where we are today without Jordan, AKA Tags, at Wenatchee. He knows the game so well and the players love his teaching aspects of the game. He never gets to high or to low but is a first class coach for our players. They are blessed to be coached by him.”

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ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Coaches of the Month: November /csshl-coaches-of-the-month-november/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=csshl-coaches-of-the-month-november Tue, 10 Dec 2024 21:43:55 +0000 /?p=6762 The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for November: Pat Lenehan, Annette Jensen, and Robert/Jagger Dirk.

For the 2024/25 season the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is proud to introduce the Coach of the Month Award for the three different ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.

This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.

We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of November

East Division –  Pat Lenehan, Okanagan Hockey Ontario: 

“Since joining Okanagan Hockey Ontario, Pat has been an integral part in building our culture. He understands what it means to build relationships with student-athletes and to make sure they feel supported. He has created an environment where our student athletes can be themselves, be held accountable and know their coaches care for them while pushing them to be their best. His work ethic is second to none and he goes above and beyond each day and on travel weekends to make sure the players have everything they need to be successful. Lastly, he represents the Okanagan Hockey Group and the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ with class and respect.”

West Female Division –  Annette Jensen, Edge School:

Annette was nominated by fellow ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ member program Balmoral Hall School program, who had the following to say:

“This month, Edge hosted the Female U18 Prep Division for a league showcase weekend, which ran incredibly smoothly. I’m nominating Annette for going above and beyond to assist another team and player in need. When we landed in Calgary, one of our players hockey bags didn’t arrive with the rest of the teams, and in the morning it still wasn’t anywhere to be found. I got on the phone with Annette less than 6 hours before game time to inquire about getting extra equipment to piece together for our player to still be able to participate in games that weekend. Annette went above and beyond to help find gear for our player, all while she was coaching her own teams game! It’s moments like these that remind us all of the importance to support each other, even if we’re playing against each other in games, we’re all on the same team when it comes to representing our league. Annette is a great ambassador for our league and she is very well deserving of the recognition as Coach of the Month.”

West Male Division – Robert & Jagger Dirk, Okanagan Hockey Academy:

“The West Male Division Coach of the Month is the father/son duo of Coaches Robert and Jagger Dirk of the OHA U18 Prep team. Their exemplary leadership and dedication to the team demonstrate the highest standards of coaching and mentorship.

The father-son dynamic between Coaches Robert Dirk and Jagger Dirk is a testament to their exceptional relationship, as well as their ability to work seamlessly together to support the growth and development of their players. Despite the usual challenges associated with high-level hockey — including short bench rotations due to illness, injuries, and player movements between affiliate teams — these coaches have consistently remained positive, encouraging, and focused on fostering an environment of learning and growth. When the team experiences setbacks, whether in practice or during games, their approach is constructive. Instead of reacting with frustration, they engage in thoughtful analysis, identifying areas for improvement and focusing on solutions.

They maintain high expectations and demand hard work from their players, yet they do so in a fair, unemotional manner. Any corrections made are constructive and without lingering negativity. There are no grudges; the focus is always on improvement and moving forward.

A noteworthy example of their attention to detail and commitment to player safety occurred during a recent practice. When rapid-fire shots were taken before the goalie had time to properly set up, Coach Robert made sure to address the situation, not only with the individual involved but also with the entire team. This commitment to maintaining a safe practice environment is something that often gets overlooked in hockey, but Coaches Robert and Jagger prioritize it, ensuring that all players, especially goalies, are protected.”

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